On Saturday 9th April Sandbach RUFC were proud to host a touring side from Willenhall RUFC. Both sides were composed of players who had been recruited through the ‘Return to Rugby’ scheme and the game was very much seen as a success of the scheme.
Willenhall travelled the relatively short distance up the M6 on a glorious spring morning. Within their ranks were a number of ‘wise old heads’ along with 4 players tasting ‘tour’ rugby for the first time. Sandbach, who welcomed back a number of social players who had lost contact with the club over recent months (and also a player who would be playing his first game in 24 years!) ensured a warm welcome for their guests and there was a tremendous spirit between the two teams before a ball had even been kicked, with players from both sides mingling before the kick off.

The game itself was a true story of ‘two halves’ with Sandbach playing an expansive game in the first half seeing them run in a number of tries. Willenhall countered in the second half and began to play a far more forward dominated game which saw them rumble the ball up the centre of the park for a number of tries. The game became far more even as the guests began to impose their will on the game and secure more and more possession. Whilst the game ended 42-19 in Sandbach’s favour the game was far tighter than the score line suggests. The spirit of the game was excellent however, with everyone playing with a smile on their face. In keeping with the spirit of the game Willenhall offered Sandbach the use of their subs when there were a few injuries on the Bach side. It would also be amiss not to mention the sterling performance of referee Rob Jones who ensured an excellent flow to the game and was rightly appreciated by both sides.

Of course, as with any tour the game was only part of the experience. Willenhall held a court session which was watched with great interest by Sandbach’s supporters. This was followed by several rounds of drinks and songs, with players returning from other games being easily pulled in to the excellent atmosphere that was generated by the Willenhall team. The festivities carried on long into the evening and it was remarked upon that it was a return to the ‘old’ style of rugby.

We’d like to thank Simon Verbickas of the RFU for putting Willenhall in touch with us. The Return to Rugby scheme has provided both ourselves and Willenhall with a game and day that we won’t forget in a hurry! We are already discussing a return fixture at some point next season.